Donald Brown reaches deal with Chargers

The San Diego Chargers added another weapon to their offensive backfield late Tuesday night, reaching a three-year deal with former Indianapolis Colts RB Donald Brown.

Brown replaces veteran Ronnie Brown (no relation) as a running mate to Ryan Mathews and Danny Woodhead. Like his new teammates, Brown is a reliable runner, receiver and blocker. He also knows new offensive coordinator Frank Reich from their days together in Indianapolis.

Brown, a first-round pick in 2009, never developed into a featured back for the Colts but did assume the starting role last season for ineffective Trent Richardson. Brown’s 751 yards from scrimmage were a career best as were his 27 receptions.

Expect him to be a chance-of-pace option and the primary backup to Mathews, a productive player but one susceptible to injuries. Mathews had his best season in 2013 (1,255 rushing yards) but wore down by the end of the Bolts’ late-season playoff drive and managed only 20 touches in two postseason appearances.

Woodhead, who caught 76 passes in 2013, his first in San Diego, will remain the primary third-down back.